Key Points:
The majority of food waste occurs at the household level, with the world generating over a billion tons of waste in 2022 alone. Fortunately, studies have shown that frozen foods are wasted less frequently than fresh foods, offering a simple and effective way to reduce waste. Frozen options are not only more affordable and have a longer shelf life, but they also provide comparable or even higher nutrient levels.
Food waste is a significant global issue, with over a billion tons wasted in 2022, equivalent to about 291 pounds per person. The United Nations highlights that this waste, amounting to one-fifth of all available food, is largely due to household-level wastage, emphasizing the power individuals have to make a difference.
In response to this crisis, experts advocate for choosing frozen foods over fresh as a practical solution available to consumers worldwide. A meta-analysis by Cornell researchers revealed that frozen foods are generally wasted less than fresh foods, particularly at the consumer level. While frozen foods can still be wasted if forgotten or past their expiration date, they are discarded less frequently than fresh foods, which are often thrown away due to perceptions of spoilage or excess preparation.
Moreover, frozen foods are wasted less frequently at the retail level compared to fresh foods, with a notable difference in waste rates. Nate Clark, a communications manager at ReFed, suggests that freezing or purchasing frozen foods can help reduce food waste, as only 2% of uneaten food comes from frozen items. This sustainable choice not only minimizes waste but also offers cost savings, as frozen food can remain edible for months or even years.
New version: Recent research shows that frozen fruits and vegetables maintain high levels of nutrients or even have increased nutritional value compared to fresh produce. This is because they are typically harvested at peak freshness and immediately frozen, preserving their essential vitamins and minerals. Additionally, frozen foods are often more budget-friendly than their fresh counterparts. According to a 2024 report from the USDA’s Economic Research Service, fresh corn cost $1.50 per cup, while frozen corn was only $0.64. Similarly, fresh spinach was $1.77 per cup, whereas frozen spinach was priced at $1.10. If you are concerned about sustainability, nutrition, and cost, consider opting for frozen options for items you typically end up wasting. Here are five tips from ReFed to help avoid food waste: Plan your meals in advance, store food properly to prolong freshness, utilize your freezer to preserve fresh produce, understand food labeling to maximize shelf life, and use up items already in your pantry before shopping for more.
